We're on the Move Again!

Well, it was an interesting 6 months in Tampa, to say the least. We will likely both post our retrospectives on this winter's Tampa experience over the coming weeks, but suffice it to say there is much to reflect upon and that that reflection is probably best done when we put some miles behind us. Which brings us to the happy declaration...

WE'RE ON THE ROAD AGAIN !!!




Check out our new back window decal

We left Tampa last Saturday and have had a jam-packed week of fun and frivolity and getting back to what we love most - travel, exploration, music and adventure.I finished up my job on Friday, April 18th after a few extensions that put me well over the 3-4 months I'd been expecting my "seasonal" job to last. Andre's seasonal position has been winding down for a few weeks, and he has just a few remaining 1-day work obligations that we are fitting in during our travels. Here are some highlights from week one.

WE BRAVED VULTURES (And Mosquitoes) TO CAMP IN THE EVERGLADES ON NIGHT ONE!

These folks didn't heed the warning and put tarps on their vehicles...

After a gorgeous drive up the keys, we spent three days in Key West

 

 

After a great couple of days in Key West visiting favorite haunts and soaking in the hot sun, we enjoyed the gorgeous drive back through the lower keys and stopped at Biscayne National Park where we spent an hour or two talking to the Park Ranger, exploring the visitor center and taking a walk along the shore, where we spotted this cool Spotted Eagle Ray in the water.

Then it was back through Alligator Alley and another night camping in the Everglades, this time stopping to hike (and even bike) on a number of trails within the National Park.

  

 

 

After a enjoying our five days in the Keys and the Everglades, we headed back to New Port Richey to spend a last night in Florida at my Mom's before heading out to Tampa International Airport to get on a plane to Chicago for a few days. Andre had a one day business obligation in a suburban Chicago school on Friday, so we decided to extend the trip to include a weekend visit to my brother and his family in nearby Naperville.

Spent a few hours walking around Wrigley Field and visiting Goose Island Brewing Co. across the street!

 

On Friday afternoon we took drive out to another much-revered brewing institution, New Glarus Brewing in Wisconsin.  It was an awe-inspiring (and tasty) experience. On our way there, we stopped for lunch at a local favorite, home of the Butterburger!

In addition to amazing beer, New Glarus had a beautiful bell tower and courtyard at their Hilltop Brewery

 

 

After a great afternoon we drove the 2 1/2 hours back to Naperville, Illinois to meet up with the family and begin our visit.  It was an amazing first week on the road!!